How Can It Be poster
Where to stream

How Can It Be

20089mMovieDrama

The story of Zainab and Arif, who live their son, Munna, in Brooklyn. Zainab makes the complicated decision to leave her protected life and follow her heart. One of eight shorts commissioned by the United Nations on themes concerning global society.

DirectorMira Nair
WritersRashida Mustafa·Suketu Mehta
ProducersMarc Obéron·Lissandra Haulica

Where to watch

Criterion ChannelCriterion Channel
Availability shown for United States · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Mira Nair

KSKonkona Sen Sharma
Konkona Sen Sharma
Zainab
RSRanvir Shorey
Ranvir Shorey
Arif
BC
Birsa Chatterjee
Munna

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How Can It Be — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams How Can It Be?

How Can It Be is streaming on Criterion Channel in United States. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is How Can It Be on Netflix?

No, How Can It Be is not on Netflix in United States as of October 2026. It's currently on Criterion Channel.

Is How Can It Be on Amazon Prime Video?

No, How Can It Be isn't on Amazon Prime Video in United States right now. It's on Criterion Channel instead.

Where can I watch How Can It Be for free?

How Can It Be is available on Criterion Channel in United States, but you'll need an active subscription — there's no free option right now.